Crackdown on Secessionist Ideologies: 3 Charged in Kashmir

In a significant move, the Kashmir unit of the State Investigation Agency (SIA) has filed a charge sheet against three individuals, including a Pakistan-based terrorist, for promoting secessionist ideologies. The charges were filed before the Special UAPA court in Kulgam district.

Srinagar, February 23: The Kashmir unit of the State Investigation Agency (SIA) has filed a charge sheet against three individuals, including a Pakistan-based terrorist, in a special court in Kulgam district. The charges relate to promoting secessionist ideologies and activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

Charge Sheet Filed in Kulgam Court

The SIA Kashmir filed the charge sheet before the Special UAPA court in Kulgam against Sarjan Barkati alias Sarjan Ahmad Wagay, his wife, and Abdul Hamid Lone alias Hamid Mawar. Lone, an active terrorist of the Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) based in Pakistan, is absconding in the case.

Charges Under UAPA and IPC

The case was registered in March 2022 under various sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), including sections 13, 17, 18, 21, 39, and 40, along with section 120-B of the Indian Penal Code.

Allegations Against Sarjan Barkati

According to the allegations, Sarjan Ahmad Wagay, an active ideologue and promoter of terrorist-secessionist activities, conspired with others, including his relatives and family members, to facilitate and promote terrorist and secessionist ideologies and activities through inflammatory speeches.

It is further alleged that Wagay incited youths to join terrorist ranks through audio and video speeches. He also received, raised, and collected funds from suspicious sources, both in cash and through banking channels, into various bank accounts. These funds were intended to be used for terrorism and secessionist activities.

Investigation Findings

The investigation established the involvement of Sarjan Barkati, his wife, and their Pakistan-based handler in furthering and financing terrorist and secessionist activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

The accused generated terror funds amounting to Rs 1.74 crore, which were routed through various shell accounts. These funds were intended to be used for promoting secessionist, subversive, and terrorist ideologies, as well as unlawful activities in the region.

Communication Through Encrypted Apps

The trio communicated with each other through secret communication applications and encrypted messenger applications.

Arrests and Absconding Accused

Two of the accused have been arrested and are in judicial custody, while the third accused, Abdul Hamid Lone, is based in Pakistan and remains absconding.

The charge sheet filed by the SIA Kashmir highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat terrorism and secessionist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. The investigation has uncovered a network of individuals involved in promoting and financing terrorist ideologies and activities, and the accused will face trial under the relevant laws.